WRITERS AND READERS CONNECT TO CELEBRATE THE POWER OF STORY DURING INAUGURAL EVENT

The Village Bookshop is thrilled to present “The Bayfield Writers Series”, a new literary initiative dedicated to bringing readers and writers together.

The goal of The Bayfield Writers Series will be to showcase the art of writing in all its many genres including, historical fiction, memoir, non-fiction and more.  The Bayfield Writers Series will also delve beyond the classic novel into other written art forms such as journalism, screenwriting, graphic novels, song-writing, poetry and even personal journaling. People all have a story to tell and the Bayfield Writers Series will help writers and readers bring these to life, whether on the page, on screen, in imagery, or the spoken word.

The Bayfield Writers Series has a secondary goal to showcase the beauty of Bayfield and the greater Huron area.

“Our region is the perfect setting to gather as readers and writers and celebrate what we do best, share our lives and our community through story. Some of the editions within the series will be hosted in a local setting fitting its genre,” said Judy Whittaker, representing the Bayfield Writers Series.

For its 2025 inaugural event, The Bayfield Writers Series will spotlight the beloved genre of historical fiction. Four International and New York Times bestselling authors: Madeline Martin, Jennifer Robson, Bryn Turnbull and Heather Marshall are coming to Bayfield to connect with an up-close and collaborative group of writers and readers. Using interactive panel discussions, readings from their captivating novels and interviews, these four masters of the Art of Historical Fiction will share a few of their secrets for writing, researching, and publishing, and maybe even a peek behind what they are working on next.

Ticket sales will be limited in order to keep the event intimate and give guests an opportunity to meet some of their favorite authors.

What better place to host a historical fiction event than The Little Inn in Bayfield? Steeped in history and an iconic setting, The Little Inn has been welcoming guests since 1847 and is the longest continually operating Inn within Bayfield. It first served as a stagecoach stop for weary travellers to rest, dine and have a drink, as well as have a place for their horses to rest.

“The Art of Historical Fiction: Where Fact Meets Fiction”, the first event by The Bayfield Writers Series will take place on May 2-3.  Tickets will go on sale Feb. 1st and can be purchased through the new website page Bayfield Writers Series where people can also sign up for newsletters and learn about future events. Follow along on FaceBook and Instagram @bayfieldwritersseries.

LIONS CLUB ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO ADVOCATE

Late in 2024, the Municipality of Bluewater was approached by potential buyers for the Bayfield Lions Club’s Community Building at 6 Municipal Road in the village. The building has been leased to the Bayfield Lions Club from Bluewater for the past 24 years. (Photo by Dianne Brandon)

At the Jan. 13, Regular Meeting of the Municipality of Bluewater Council Chief Administration Officer Laurie Spence-Bannerman was directed to negotiate a direct sale of 6 Municipal Road with Zulk Enterprises Inc.**

During this process the Bayfield Lions Club membership continues to advocate for those village groups that have utilized the building at 6 Municipal Road in its current capacity as the Bayfield Lions Community Building.

“As we await updates from the Municipality of Bluewater regarding the future of the Lions Building, we want to acknowledge that having doctors in Bayfield is vital, and we fully support the establishment of a medical clinic in our community. We also understand the building will likely be sold,” said Ian Matthew, president of the Bayfield Lions Club. “However, our focus remains on ensuring the proceeds from the sale are used to benefit Bayfield by relocating the Bayfield Area Food Bank to a new facility to continue serving over 100 clients as well as setting aside the remaining funds to support key Bayfield needs such as the Bayfield Community Centre, Bayfield Town Hall, and Bayfield Archives Building.”

The Lions membership would like to encourage people to share their thoughts on this vision to Mayor Paul Klopp at pklopp@municipalityofbluewater.ca or Councilor Bill Whetstone at bwhetstone@municipalityofbluewater.ca.

They would also like to invite people to attend Whetstone’s next monthly instalment of Councilor’s Corner which will be held today (Jan. 22) at 6:30 p.m. in the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena. An update on the Bayfield Lions Community Building is on the agenda for the evening.

“While we support the sale of the building and the need for medical services in Bayfield, it is equally important to prioritize the relocation of the Bayfield Area Food Bank and ensure the remaining funds are reserved for critical needs in our community. A quick email or attendance at Councilor’s Corner can help reinforce this vision and ensure these priorities are heard,” said Matthew. “Let’s continue working together to shape a positive future for Bayfield!”

**To view the full direction, see “Bluewater News” further down in this issue of the Bayfield Breeze.

“AN EVENING WITH HARRY” NEARLY SOLD-OUT

Harry Baker is pictured here with his twin sister Greta Scotchmer in a photo taken in front of what is now known as Trinity St. James Chapel in 1986. The twins were born in Bayfield on June 28, 1903. In Baker’s book, “My Memoirs”, he comments that “the village was electrified to have twins in its midst.” (Submitted photo)

It may be safe to say that Harry Baker (1903-1997) was the last Bayfield resident with a true pioneer spirit. In 1986, at the age of 83, he sat down and penned his memoirs detailing incidents that had occurred in the village during his lifetime. This self-published book was never formally edited or organized but remains a testament to a way of life all but forgotten and a tribute to the people that shaped this community.

Reflections on Bayfield life in the 1900s that can be found in Baker’s memoir will be showcased in a series of readings skillfully crafted by local author Judy Keightley during “An Evening with Harry” to be held on Saturday, Feb. 8.

Starting at 6 p.m., prior to the readings, participants will dine on a hearty pasta dinner and a scrumptious dessert.

The evening, hosted by the TSJ Hall Association, will also act as a fundraiser for the TSJ Hall, attached to the rear of the Trinity St. James Chapel of Ease. The hall is now run independently by an association composed of community members and is available for use by local groups and organizations as well as for private family functions.

Tickets are available now for $25 each increasing to $30 as of Feb. 1st. Organizers report that tickets are selling well with only six tickets remaining so don’t hesitate, reserve a spot today!  To do so please email Melody Falconer-Pounder at melody.pounder@gmail.com or call 519 525-3830.

The TSJ Hall and Trinity St. James Chapel has a dedicated website and people are invited to visit it to learn more about other hosted events as well as rental opportunities at www.trinitystjamesbayfield.com.

The TSJ Hall and Trinity St.James Chapel are located at 10 Keith Crescent in the village.

SPARKY LIKES TO BE WORN AS A SCARF

Sparky (Submitted photo)

Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) have many cats and kittens looking for their forever homes such as the Adopt a BFF kitten of the week – Sparky.

Rescue volunteers note that Sparky is well named.

“He not only sparks joy and entertainment but he lights us up with his crazy antics,” said Deb Penhale, representing BFF. “He is never destructive, just very curious and super helpful. He wants to help prepare meals, wash the dishes, lick out the cans, and help scoop litter. He also likes to be worn like a scarf and to be loved and given endless hugs.”

Penhale also shared that when the chores are complete ‘Sparkarella’ loves to curl up on a lap for a much needed rest.

“He has a lovely, although low key, brother named Domino that he likes to wrestle with as well,” she said.

Please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about Sparky, Domino and others. The adoption fee is $250. Adopted cats are vetted, shots are up-to-date and they are also spayed or neutered. Can’t adopt or foster at this time?  Consider donating for medical care and food to the email address listed above via E-transfer or mail financial donations to P.O. Box 33, Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0.

Want to see and learn more about the felines at the shelter? This can be done easily by visiting their website! Included on this website is lots of helpful information on how people can help feral kittens. The site, www.bayfieldsforgottenfelines.ca, features a searchable index of all the cats and kittens available for adoption. This includes pictures and descriptions of their personalities. Plus there is  a new option for making donations by credit card. The website also includes online forms that automate the adoption and volunteer application processes as well as testimonials from previous adopters who found their purrfect matches at BFF.

HIKE AND LUNCH FEATURES CHILLS AND CHILI

PHOTOS BY JACK PAL

Over 40 hikers attended the first hike of 2025 hosted by Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) on Sunday, Jan. 19. With temperatures in the negatives, hikers enjoyed a brisk walk through fresh snow on the Varna Nature Trails.

The hike was followed by a free lunch of chili, cornbread, local apples and warm cider at the Stanley Community Centre.  The event kicked off the season of 25 guided hikes and events throughout the year.

“The lineup this year includes some continuing traditions such as our International Women’s Day Hike (March 8) and our third annual Pride Walk (June 8), as well as some new events,” said Ralph Blasting, Hike coordinator. “For example, we’ll join a specialist on beach erosion on a walk from Clan Gregor Square down to the Howard Street beach (March 22), a Garlic Mustard pull (May 24), and a guided Night Hike (Aug. 9).”

Unless otherwise noted, all hikes are free and open to the public.

The BRVTA is an all-volunteer, registered non-profit organization which relies on membership fees to maintain seven local trails.  Annual membership is $20 for individuals, $30 for a family.

The full schedule and information on becoming a member is available at www.bayfieldtrails.com.

BLUEWATER BUDGET REMAINS LARGELY UNCHANGED OVER LAST YEAR

The Municipality of Bluewater Council adopted the 2025 budget at their Regular Meeting on Jan. 13. Adoption of the budget comes following Council’s consideration of the draft capital and operating budgets presented by Bluewater staff between October to December 2024.

Mayor Paul Klopp said, “The budget process is never cut and dried. I would like to thank the Manager of Finance for presenting a budget that Council has had productive, open discussions about and has confidently concluded that this is the budget we will support. The budget ensures that we’re investing in the infrastructure and services that are necessary for our community.”

Significant attention at the municipal level has been dedicated to developing the framework needed for sustainable, responsible, and transparent financial decision making. In recent years, the Municipality has worked to identify the spending requirements needed to sustain levels of service and maintain key infrastructure through its Asset Management Plan (AMP) and key financial policies such as the Municipality’s Reserve and Reserve Fund Policy and Investment Policy. As a result of the 2025 budget process and consideration of the AMP and financial policies, Council committed to a three per cent tax levy increase each year for a minimum of five years for tax levy capital reserve contributions. This will have a significant impact on the funds available to fund both core and non-core infrastructure, addressing the infrastructure backlog identified through AMP. Using this forward planning approach, the municipality will double its contribution to capital reserves over five years.

Through the budget process, Council and staff sought to set a municipal budget that is both fair and attainable in that it supports the continued delivery of municipal services in a challenging economic climate. Aside from policing costs which increased 18.27 percent over 2024 amounts and contributions to reserves, Bluewater’s 2025 operating budget remains largely unchanged over 2024 amounts. Ultimately, the 2025 budget has been set at $22.3 million for operating and $5.8 million for capital. This will result in a Bluewater tax levy of $10.6 million, resulting in an overall municipal tax levy increase of 5.34 per cent after growth, excluding rates for the County of Huron and school boards.

For ratepayers, this will translate to an estimated increase in the municipal tax portion of $88 in 2025 for a single-family home when using the estimated assessment value of $266,000.

Capital investments identified for 2025 include replacing the culvert on Blackbush Line; paving Airport Line from Mill Road to the Bayfield River Bridge (7.5 km); replacing the Zurich Fire Pumper Tanker; purchasing a new sidewalk plow; replacing sanitary main lining on John St. N., Zurich; replacing the Hensall Arena condenser; and replacing baseball diamond lighting in Hensall and at the north diamond at Varna.

THRILLING WEEK FOR THE TEAM BEHIND GATEWAY’S BRAVE-F PROJECT

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is a first person perspective on an interesting and eventful week at Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway).

STORY BY GATEWAY RESEARCH ASSISTANT, NEELIAH LEWIS

Gateway research assistant, Neeliah Lewis (Submitted photo)

A press release accidentally emailed to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)  kick-started the week with several thrilling events for the Benefitting Rural Area Volunteer Emergency Firefighters (BRAVE-F) Project.

I’m thrilled to share the details of an incredible experience highlighting the impactful work of the Gateway initiative BRAVE-F Project. Together with Gateway Research Chair of Rural Substance Use, Dr. Michael Beazely, I had the privilege of participating in both a CBC interview and radio appearance on the Afternoon Drive with CBC London’s Matt Allen, as well as collaborating with Meagan Tamming and Sage Milne for a lecture series that delved deeply into this critical initiative.

Dr. Beazely and I were honored to speak on CBC London’s Afternoon Drive with Matt Allen, an unexpected yet invaluable opportunity that allowed us to further amplify the BRAVE-F Project’s mission. This platform allowed us to continue to raise awareness about the project’s focus on improving cardiovascular health among volunteer firefighters in Huron County, with hopes to expand to Perth-Grey-Bruce Counties. We specifically highlighted the project’s objectives, to provide free, confidential medical screenings and education tailored to the unique cardiovascular health needs of rural volunteer firefighters. Additionally, we shared the meaningful progress we have made in expanding the initiative, ensuring that this underserved demographic receives vital education on preventative measures that can be taken to improve physical and mental well-being. Our ultimate goal is to educate and advocate for the necessary resources and policies that will better support the health and safety of rural volunteer first responders.

Following our media appearances, I collaborated with Dr. Beazely, Huron East Fire Chief Jay Arns, and Gateway Research Assistants, Meagan Tamming and Sage Milne, to deliver an engaging lecture series event. The session was open to the public and was designed to educate and connect with diverse audiences, from students to professionals; while focusing on how the project came to be and trends we have found so far in our preliminary screenings.

Each of the panelists brought unique perspectives and expertise to the table. Our discussion created a dynamic platform that explored the BRAVE-F Project’s implementation and how it can be useful for the community to educate themselves on cardiovascular disease. These preventive measures aim to enhance the physical and mental well-being of rural firefighters. Feedback from attendees highlighted the depth of information shared and the tangible inspiration it sparked.

I’m excited about the future of the BRAVE-F Project and how these conversations can contribute to its growth and impact. If you’d like to learn more about the BRAVE-F Project, read the CBC interview, volunteer at future events, or if you are a volunteer fire department looking to participate, please visit www.gatewayruralhealth.ca.

TREE COVER DOUBLED IN 60 YEARS

Local landowners plant tens of thousands of trees each year, totaling more than one million trees in the past two decades. (Submitted photo)

Trees are good for the environment and for people, according to Ian Jean, Forestry and Land Stewardship specialist with Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA). Trees and forests contribute to cleaner air and water, can provide sustainable wood products, and also promote physical and mental health, he said.

Spring is not far away, and ABCA provides the opportunity for bulk-ordering trees through the Spring Tree Order Form now through the end of February. It is posted at the conservation authority website at abca.ca on the Order Trees web page Tree Order Form. The final order deadline is Feb. 28. Ordering sooner is encouraged as availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.

ABCA offers a wide range of trees through its spring tree planting program. The Forestry and Land Stewardship Specialist encourages interested landowners to visit abca.ca for the spring tree order form or to give him a call at 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610 to discuss planting projects.

“We’re happy to help with project design and help to apply for funding for eligible projects,” he said. Funding is available in many areas to support planting trees for windbreaks, for reforestation and for naturalization.

Local landowners plant tens of thousands of trees each year, totaling more than one million trees in the past two decades.

“These efforts have helped tree cover to double in the last 60 years,” said Jean.

However, forest cover in local watersheds remains quite low at only 14 per cent according to the Ausable Bayfield Watershed Report Card (2023).

People plant trees for many different reasons, said Jean. “Everything from field windbreaks, wildlife habitat, bordering walking trails, to retiring unproductive acres or corners of fields to create private natural areas,” he said.

These tree planting projects help protect and improve our soil and water quality that are so important to agriculture, tourism, and quality of life.

Spending time in trees and natural areas has been shown to have physical and mental health benefits, according to Jean. Planting trees is one way a local landowner can achieve recreational and physical and mental well-being benefits on their own property. An article published on Jan. 2nd by “Farmtario” documents how 15 minutes spent around trees and nature can make a big difference in someone’s personal well-being: “Spending time outside, particularly in nature, is important because it can help regulate stress, boost mental health, and improve immune function … But the good news is you don’t need to spend hours outdoors each day to see benefits. Even just 15 minutes a day in nature is enough to boost your mood, concentration and physical health.”

To read the full article visit: Farmtario.

ABCA thanks grant program funding partners including member municipalities; Huron County Clean Water Project; Forests Canada; the Government of Canada’s Canada Nature Fund; the Government of Ontario’s Great Lakes Local Action Fund; Sunset Community Foundation; and Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation; along with other community donors and other valued funding partners.

Anyone who has property on which trees can be planted should consider purchasing a tree through the tree order program. Anyone who doesn’t have room on their property for trees, can still help to improve forest conditions by donating to tree planting through the program Footprints to Forests.

JANUARY IS ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS MONTH

Dr. Alexandra Peel (Submitted photo)

During Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, Alzheimer Societies across Canada unite to challenge dementia stigma and create a community where everyone feels more comfortable talking about dementia and sharing their own experience. Alzheimer Society Huron Perth is featuring three special education events in the community.

“Talk with the Doc! Planning Ahead for Medical Decisions” with Dr. Alexandrea Peel will take place on ZOOM today (Jan. 22) from 1:30-3:00 p.m. Dr. Peel, a local geriatrician well-versed in dementia care, will identify and discuss how to prepare for the complex decisions that people and families living with dementia and frailty may face. Talk with the Doc, an annual January event, also includes a lively Q&A session with Dr. Peel after the presentation. Free self-registration at Doc-Talk 2025.

The Dementia Basics Series are free one-hour sessions designed to answer the most frequently asked questions. These sessions, scheduled for 7 p.m. on Mondays and 1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, are equally valuable for families and healthcare professionals. Self-register at Education Hour

• Jan. 27/28: Types of Dementia
• Feb. 3/4: Brain Changes – 8 A’s of Dementia
• Feb. 10/11: Communication Tips

The Virtual Memory and Aging Program is the online version of the popular four-week Memory & Aging Course which reviews age-related memory changes, how to optimize brain health, and helpful memory strategies. The program takes place on ZOOM on Thursdays, starting on Jan. 23 and concluding on Feb. 13, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. There is a $25 workbook fee with financial assistance available. Self-register at Memory and Aging Program.

Alzheimer’s Huron Perth’s free Awareness Month Movie event returns to the Huron County Museum in Goderich on Feb. 6 and Feb. 13 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. The Canadian Film Board’s “Dear Audrey”, is a heartfelt blend of documentary and love story captured by activist photographer, Martin Duckworth, as he cares for his wife Audrey. The uplifting movie, “Headful of Honey”, stars Nick Nolte and his granddaughter Sophia Lane Nolte. The film is the story of a granddaughter who takes her grandfather on a train trip to Venice, in hopes of reconnecting with old memories. Dear Audrey will be showing at 2 p.m. on Feb. 6 and 7 p.m. on Feb. 13. Headful of Honey will be showing at 7 p.m. on Feb. 6 and 2 p.m. on Feb. 13. Stay tuned for more details.

To find out more about these and other upcoming programs, click on the Education Hour banner on the Alzheimer’s Huron Perth website at www.alzheimer.ca/huronperth. People can also contact their offices at 1-800-561-5012 or email info@alzhp.ca.